How long is the train ride from Washington DC to New York? Also, about how much does it cost? Thanks in advance for your help! I really appreciate it! (or what site gives the most reliable info on this)
Try amtrak.com, which should give you a good idea. Time and cost can vary greatly, depending on express vs local, acela, and different levels of service (like on airlines).
3-3.5 hours by Amtrak...cheapest seat is $127.
It's definitely superior to flying as far as cost and delay potential, and when you factor in time in getting to the airport, going through security, etc., the time difference isn't that great, either.
The last time I went, the cost difference between local and express was significant--$100 each leg, I think?--and the travel time difference was not that great. You save maybe 30-45 minutes.
Or you can do MegaBus or BoltBus, the most I've ever paid was $18 round trip. And there is free WiFi on the bus. If you don't go during rush hour it is a fairly quick trip.
You definitely want to take the Northeast Regional. Unless you have money to burn, Acela is really not worth the extra cost and you only save about 20-30 minutes.
Wow! Thanks so much for all the responses! As some of you know, my son got into NYU and we're trying to figure out travel arrangements. I have a cousin who lives in Dumphrees, VA- right near Mt. Vernon and I was trying to figure out if we stayed with her- what kind of commute we would have. Now I have to look for a really cheap hotel with parking that is safe and near NYU. My BWW friends are the best! Thanks again!
Dumfries to Union Station is about 30 miles. Amtrak also services Alexandria, but there aren't as many trains through there. As others have said, The Acella may be faster, but it's not necessarily worth the extra money.
I have done DC to NYC on Amtrak for as little as $98 round trip (trip booked well in advance).
I also got an Amtrak Mastercard which gave me 18,000 points with my first purchase right off the bat, which was good for 3 free round trip tickets.
Also Supportivemom, when your son gets settled up in New York, you may want to look into getting him a Student Advantage discount card. It's good for use on Amtrak as well as Greyhound and several airlines and typically gets you a %10 - %15 discount on fares. I had one during my college years and it really proved to be a great money-saver when I would travel home on breaks.
Thanks James- and everyone else! You have all been so helpful!
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